Encouragement for Today

[Judy Harder]

January 12, 2010

At a Crossroads

T. Suzanne Eller

"'Who are you, lord?' Saul asked. And the voice replied, 'I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting! Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.'"

Acts 9:5-6 (NLT)
       
Devotion:

Lysa TerKeurst was on the stage sharing a message titled "Pursuing Excellence," but the Holy Spirit was center stage in my heart. That night at the annual She Speaks Conference was a crossroads moment, one of a handful in my life where I knew that God was speaking to me and asking me to turn either right or left. 

Lysa challenged the audience to put aside anything that might stand between them and God's best. That night the gentle nudge of the Holy Spirit showed me something that could possibly hold me back from excellence. No big sin. No hidden motives. And yet it mattered to God.

Did it matter to me? And what would I do about it? I spent time in the prayer room that night and I left with an understanding of what steps to take. 

When I returned home, I quickly realized that the battle was bigger than I thought. God had shown me that I had allowed something "harmless" to claim my time and attention, to distract me from what He was calling me to do - write more books, develop new messages, and just hang out with Jesus more.

It wasn't about trying to be a super Christian, but a discovery process. What did God have for me as His girl?

In Acts 9, Saul was on his own mission, bustling towards Damascus to arrest followers of Christ. A voice and a Light stopped him in his tracks. He fell to the ground and asked, "Who are you, lord?"

This was Saul's personal crossroad. Would he stay on the same old path, or would he stop and allow God to take control? It wasn't easy, but Saul gave over the reins of his life to God and the rest is history. Where would Saul have ended up if he had ignored the voice of God?

He was a prominent man, a Roman citizen. A man feared by many. He could have stayed on that road and enjoyed the power and prestige. Instead Saul emerged with brand new direction that led him toward his destiny. He uncovered new paths. He discovered exactly who and what God knew he could be all along.

Perhaps you've felt that holy discontent lately. Maybe you are at your own crossroads.

What helped me the most was to ask the same question Saul did: "Who are you, lord?"

I looked at my time. I looked at my dreams. I looked at my relationship with the God who loves and knows me best. What had become lord in my life?

When I answered that question, I found renewed direction. I'm so grateful for a God that will stop me right where I am and show me the way.

Dear Father, thank You for loving us enough to stop us right where we are. I am grateful that You know us. You know what we can do, and You know our weaknesses. Thank You for leading us to an abundant and full existence through You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Making It Real: Whose Faith Is It Anyway by T. Suzanne Eller

What Happens When Woman Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Visit Suzie's blog where she offers a giveaway of Making It Real: Whose Faith Is It Anyway and shares a devotion you can download to help you at the crossroads.

Application Steps: 

If you feel the same nudge from God's Spirit Suzie did, stop and:

Ask: Ask for clarity.

Anticipate: When God speaks to us it is not to condemn, but to motivate. What does God see that you do not?

Act: Turn in the direction God is leading you.

Reflections: 

According to Miriam Webster, a crossroads is a crucial point, especially where a decision must be made.

"Let a man set his heart only on doing the will of God and he is instantly free. No one can hinder him." - A.W. Tozer

"The beautiful thing about this adventure called faith is that we can count on Him never to lead us astray." - Charles Swindoll

Power Verses:

Acts 9:19b-21, "Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, 'He is indeed the Son of God!' All who heard him were amazed." (NLT)

© 2010 T. Suzanne Eller.  All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 13, 2010

The Colors of Emotion

Susanne Scheppmann

"This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything." 1 John 3:19-20 (NIV)

Devotion:

My feelings scoot across the emotion spectrum. Some days are happy days. Other mornings I don't want to crawl out of bed—I just want to wallow in misery and depression. I sigh and say to my husband, "I have the blues today."

I guess you could say I am a "colorful" person. Maybe you are too. Have you ever found yourself saying something like ...

·        I am feeling blue today.

·        I am so angry; I'm seeing red.

·        I am green with envy.

·        I am in black despair.

Often our emotions are not based on reality, but on a temporary perception of reality. The prophet Jeremiah wrote, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9, NIV). I don't always understand why I feel the way I do. My moods could result from weariness, hormones, or an unexpected surprise.

Fortunately, although our hearts are deceitful and trick us into colorful emotions, God is bigger and stronger than our weak hearts. Our key verse states, "This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything (1 John 3:19-20, NIV; emphasis added). This makes me shout aloud, "Hallelujah!"

We still hold some responsibility, however, for our thoughts and emotions. Proverbs 4:23 instructs, "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life" (NIV)." How do we do this? We should take care about the books, movies and television that we allow to influence our thoughts. Listening to gossip, rumors and discontent from friends can certainly stir up negative feelings as well. 

Instead of infusing ourselves with emotional junk food, we need to nourish our minds with godly influences. For example, read the Bible, chat with godly friends, or listen to praise music. The more joyful and contentment-filled influences we filter our thoughts through each day, the more we'll experience a positive emotional state—in fact, we'll be tickled pink!
                                                                                                                                                                         
Dear Lord, grant me the ability to recognize my emotions are not always truth. I thank You that You are bigger and stronger than my deceitful heart. Teach me how to be most effective in guarding my heart from fickle emotions. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Susanne's blog

Divine Prayers for Despairing Parents by Susanne Scheppmann

The S.O.S for PMS: Practical Help and Relief for Moms by Mary M. Byers
30 Days to Taming Your Stress by Deborah Smith Pegues
Here are a few tips for A New Year, A Better You
Application Steps: 

Memorize the following passages to help you gain control over colorful emotions:

Jeremiah 17:9, The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? (NIV)

1 John 3:20, For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. (NIV)

Proverbs 4:23, Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life (NIV)

Reflections: 

Do I rely on my emotions to determine the outcome of my day?

What circumstances influence my emotions?

Power Verses:

Romans 12:2, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." (NLT)

Philippians 4:8, "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse." (MSG)

Galatians 5:22-24, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (NIV)

© 2010 by Susanne Scheppmann. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 14, 2010

I'll Start Again on Monday

Lysa TerKeurst

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

Romans 8:37 (NIV)
       
Devotion:

New Year's Resolutions... some of us like them.  Most of us loathe them.  But the reality is, a lot of us make them.

And usually right up at the top of most resolutions lists is some version of the promise we'll eat better and exercise more.  There is a honeymoon phase the first couple of days of starting a new healthy eating plan.  But then you're invited to a party.  Your friends are quick to say, "Oh come on, just one won't hurt. This is a special day." 

That cheesecake does look good.  The Mexican chips and dip are irresistible.  It is a special night.  I can start again on Monday.

It is so tempting to give in.  Set things in reverse.  Pretend it won't matter. But it does matter and not just for the physical or mental set back.  It's the denial of a fundamental spiritual truth that will make our healthy eating plan fall apart time and time again.  What is this truth?  We were made for more than this.  More than this failure, more than this cycle, more than being ruled by taste buds - we were made for victory.  Sometimes we just have to find our way to that truth.

When I was a senior in high school I was invited to a college party. I had a friend who'd graduated the year before me and became my favorite person in the world the day she invited me to her sorority party. By the end of the night we were giggling over the attention given to us by two good looking college boys. As the party died down, they invited us over to their place.

Part of me was so flattered, I wanted to go. A much bigger part of me didn't. But plans got made and before I knew it we were getting into their car and driving away. I was not a strong Christian at this point in my life. Not even close. And I certainly can't say I'd ever heard God speak to me, but in the midst of this situation, I did.

"This isn't you, Lysa. You were made for more than this."

Truth. A gift of truth. Planted deep within me when God personally knit me together - untied and presented at just the right time.

I wound up making an excuse for a quick exit and walking back to my car alone that night. I mentally beat myself up for acting like a young, immature high schooler who couldn't handle being a college party girl. But looking back, I want to stand up on a chair and clap, clap, clap for my little high schooler self!

There were other seasons of my growing up years where I heard this truth loud and clear repeated within the confines of my soul but, sadly, I refused to listen. These were the darkest years of my life. I wasn't made to live a life that dishonors the Lord.

None of us are.

"You were made for more Lysa - you were made for more." I remembered it especially in those early weeks of my new healthy eating adventure when I was tempted by one million assaults on my sugar-deprived taste buds. I just kept mentally repeating ... made for more. Made for more!

And though my healthy eating quest pales in comparison to the importance of a high schooler trying to keep her purity - hunger is hunger. Temptation is temptation. Desire is desire. So, maybe they aren't so different after all.

We were made for more.

What a great truth to use while rewriting the "go to" script that plays in our head every time we're tempted.  Rewriting the go-to scripts is one of the most crucial steps toward permanent progress.  Remember the script that I mentioned earlier in this article?  The excuses?  The rationalizations?  The "I'll do better on Monday" escape clauses?

We have to rewrite those by getting into the habit of saying other things.  And the first of these is, "I was made for more."

Listen to these words from Proverbs 3:5-8, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.  Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.  This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones."

Trust in the Lord-you were made for more.  In all your ways acknowledge Him-you were made for more.  Don't try to be wise and do your new diet in your own strength, hold tight to the Lord and flee from temptations-you were made for more.  This will bring health and nourishment to you and help you find victory in this struggle-you were made for more!
                                                                                                                                                                     
Dear Lord, I was made for more than getting stuck in a vicious cycle of defeat.  I trust You and want to acknowledge You in ALL my ways.  Help me to remember I was made for more with each choice I make. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Visit Lysa's blog for a list of other "go-to scripts."

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst

P31 Woman magazine - this devotion was featured as an article in this month's magazine.  If you enjoyed this article, you might enjoy a one-year subscription to our monthly magazine.

Application Steps: 

If food is an issue for you, visit Lysa's blog for more "Go To Scripts" that will help you overcome tempting situations.

If food is not an issue for you, how does today's devotion apply to your area of struggle?

Reflections: 

Who are some friends that can walk through this journey of learning to make healthier choices with me?

Is pursuing healthier eating a vain pursuit or could it have deep spiritual applications in my life as well?

Power Verses:

Psalm 78:18, "They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved." (NIV) 

Proverbs 3:5, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him..." (NIV)

© 2010 by Lysa TerKeurst. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 15, 2010

Is Ignorance Bliss?

Leslie Nease, She Speaks! Graduate

"Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship Him as God or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused." Romans 1:21-22 (NLT)

Devotion:

A wave of regret swept over me as I looked up the nutrition information on the pumpkin muffin I'd just consumed.  It had a whopping 530 calories, 20 fat grams and 80 carbohydrates!  Stunned, I wondered why I would ever want to know this information? Why did I look this up? Now I wouldn't be able to eat my pumpkin muffin in good conscience!

Ignorance is bliss. Or is it?

If I didn't know this nutritional information I would eat the muffin thinking that because it contains vegetable, it must be good for me! I mean, honestly - have you tasted one of these?  But the truth is, eating a pumpkin muffin every day for the rest of my life might lead to some serious consequences. Heart disease, obesity, lack of energy and diabetes could be in my future.  Now that I'm in the know, I can't deny the potential negative affects this could have. I have a responsibility and a decision to make, whether I like it or not. 


Similarly, it used to be easier for me to pretend God wasn't real--hell was made up and evil was something I could elude.  But when faced with the reality that there is a God who I am accountable to, there is a hell, and evil is present; I knew I had some decisions to make.  Instead of living in denial, I accepted that ignorance is not bliss and it was not doing me any favors. So I started to search for truth about God in the pages of His Word.

Scripture is the one place where we can be sure we will find all we need to know about God. However, many folks try to figure out God without the Bible; they want a god on their terms. This reminds me of diets that promise extreme weight loss while eating whatever you want without exercising. We would be in denial if we believed those promises.  To lose weight, you have to know the nutritional value of food, work out regularly, and not eat pumpkin muffins every day!  It's a conscious decision to daily invest in our health and there are no short cuts.

Denying God's existence is not going to change the fact that He is there either. Ignorance is not bliss - it is ignorance.

God makes Himself known to us through His Word.  He says, "I Am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5, NIV).  We must make a conscious decision daily to invest in our spiritual health through learning about God through time in the Bible. We must connect and remain with Him. With God's Word lighting our path, we are armed with truth, so we can make informed decisions that will help us grow, not lead us into deception.

Dear Lord, I pray our minds and hearts will be opened and softened to the truth of Your Word. Help us embrace it and learn, grow and walk in the freedom of knowing that You are real and You desire a relationship with us. I pray we will take Your hand as we walk through this life.  Instead of living in ignorance, may we walk forward, realizing that Your Truth is what sets us free. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Pierced By the Word by John Piper

Perplexing Proverbs by Susanne Scheppmann

For more encouragement check out Hold It Up to the Light

Application Steps: 

It's important that we surround ourselves with people who will be truthful with us.  Having godly, honest friends can ensure we have the accountability and tools to grow in our faith.

Spend some time in prayer and in God's Word, asking Him to reveal any areas of your life you may be living in denial or deception.  Be ready to respond to what He may reveal with humility and a desire to grow.

Reflections: 

Is there a scripture that you find difficult to believe?  Have you prayed and asked God to reveal the context and the reason He included this scripture in His Word?  Spend time digging into different Bible Commentaries found on various websites to help understand God's Word.

Can you think of a time in your life when you believed ignorance was bliss?
                                                                                                                                                                     
Power Verses:

Proverbs 4:13, "Take hold of my instructions, don't let them go. Guard them, for they are the key to life." (NLT)

Psalm 119:105, "Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." (NLT)

© 2010 Leslie Nease. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 18, 2010

The Desires of His Heart

Jennifer Erin Valent, She Reads Featured Author

"Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Psalm 37:4 (NIV)

Devotion:

When I was young, my girlfriends and I used to play a game where we would choose different ideals we had for our lives, from whom we wanted to marry, to what car we wanted to drive. Life seemed so simple then! In just one short game, I could plan my life out from start to finish. Funny thing is, I never did marry Johnny Depp, I don't live in a mansion, and I don't drive a Porsche.

Well, I was young, and it's certainly a blessing that I didn't end up having to live out the life I planned for myself then. But what about now? As an adult, I've had plenty of dreams for my life. I think I'm pretty intuitive about myself, and I've got a good idea how I think things should go. And since Scripture says the Lord will give us the desires of our hearts, shouldn't these things be coming to pass?

Maybe not. The Lord knows a whole lot more than we give Him credit for, and maybe what He has planned for our lives doesn't match up with what we have planned.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (NIV).

What a promise! In just a few words, this verse tells us how much God loves us and how much He wants to bless our lives. He wants our short walk on this earth to be worth so much! But then, what about those desires of our hearts? Where do they fit in?

The Hebrew definition of the word delight in Psalm 37:4 is interesting; it involves the idea of being soft and pliable. Makes me think of clay. I've used small blocks of clay before, and in order to be able to work with one, I need to hold in it my hands and get it warm and soft, ready to be formed into the shape I intend for it to be. Sound familiar? "Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand" (Isaiah 64:8, NIV).

As the Potter forms us, we begin to know Him more. His thoughts become our thoughts. That's when God does more than grant us the desires of our hearts; He actually provides us with those very desires. We no longer want what we want, we want what He wants. And it is most certain that whatever the Lord wishes to bring to pass in our lives, He also desires to freely give us.

We're so often caught up in our own ideas that we forget to listen to His. What a difference it would make if we had God's best intentions at heart. If we could just step out in faith that our Father wants our very best, and that of all things on this earth, we could never have better than what He gives. What peace that would bring to us all. What delight that would bring to our Lord.

And what gifts that would place at our feet when He both provides and fulfills the desires of our hearts!

Dear Lord, help me to see how much You love me and how much You want for me. Take my heart in Your hand and fashion it after Your own heart so that I will know the beauty of what You desire for my life. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Fireflies in December  a novel by Jennifer Erin Valent.  This book is a current She Reads  selection - visit the site to learn more about the novel and its author.

Follow this link to P31's She Reads and enter today's giveaway:

One grand prize winner will receive the first two novels in this series by Jennifer Valent  - Fireflies in December and Cottonwood Whispers—as well as two beautiful hard-cover devotional books: The Daily God Book: Words of Wisdom, and The Daily God Book: A Year of Listening to God. 

Plus, a second runner up will win both of Jennifer's novels, and a third runner up will win Fireflies in December, the first book in the series.

Shaped with Purpose CD and companion Workbook by Renee Swope

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God by Lysa TerKeurst

Application Steps:

Make a point of counting your blessings daily. When we focus on God's many blessings, we see more and more how much He loves us and how many good things He gives us.

Scripture is full of God's promises to us. Search for them and remember them! God's unchanging nature and unfailing love are the cornerstones of faith. If He said it, He meant it, and those promises are a reassuring haven when life seems out of control.

Reflections:

Which of God's promises will remind me during today's particular challenges that I can trust the Lord with my future?

In what ways has the Lord blessed me already today?

Power Verses:

Ephesians 1:3, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." (NIV)

Luke 12:6-7, "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." (NIV)

                                        © 2010 by Jennifer Erin Valent, All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 19, 2010

Richer or Poorer?

Shari Braendel

"One man pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth." Proverbs 13:7 (NIV)

Devotion:

I watched Maria as she put her arm around her young son and drew him to her side. He responded by leaning in. They were a family of little means and just walking around her house would make even the most hardened heart cry. The shack had a roof made of sharp tin with tree branches mingled in between the layers. It certainly could not keep the elements out and as I peered up and saw light peeking in I wondered how they kept dry when it rained.

The floors were made of cement in some places, dirt in others. Bricks surrounded the little house and as Eric proudly showed me the bedroom that he shared with his mother and two brothers, I smiled. I was then led into the meager kitchen that was stocked with some old pans, a bag of potatoes, some carrots and a sink that refused to release water from its spout.

There was not a bathroom or laundry area except for the ragged line that hung outside with a few items of clothing on it. For all of this bareness, the children were genuinely joyful. As the boys hugged their mom, there was that sense of sweetness that happens between a child and his mother that no amount of money or material goods can replace. This family had each other and they had Jesus.

Ecuador is extremely impoverished in regards to material blessings. I've decided, however, that many in the U.S., though they have an abundance of possessions, are much poorer in other aspects. Families in Ecuador don't seem to know they are poor. Ironically, so many people living around me don't know they're poor either - spiritually in need.

I arrived home from Ecuador with a new vision of blessing. You see, the families I encountered in the homes I visited may not be blessed with material things but they consider it a privilege and gift to know Jesus. When people place highest value in Jesus, not possessions, they gain a life of hope. Hope without end. I can collect everything money can buy, but if I have no hope, I have nothing of value.

Dear God, thank You for the richness and fullness that I have in my life because You sent Your Son.  Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus instead of wanting more things that will never fulfill me the way You do. I know that it is only through Christ that I can be truly wealthy.  In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

Sponsor a child from Ecuador thru Compassion International

Too Small to Ignore by Dr. Wess Stafford

Practicing Hospitality: The Joy of Serving Others by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock

Visit Shari's blog to hear more about her trip to Ecuador

Application Steps:

Pray Romans 15:13 for the nations: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (NIV)

Are you feeling hopeless today?  Proverbs 11:25 says "He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed" (NIV).  Refresh someone today with the hope of Jesus—you will in turn be refreshed with His hope.

My visit with Maria and Eric in Ecuador was through the child sponsorship program of Compassion International.  No matter who we are or where we are, we can bring Jesus' hope to the nations through the simple act of sponsoring a child. Compassion International makes certain each sponsored child hears about Jesus and is given the chance to accept true hope.  Check out Compassion International today to learn more.

Reflections:

What in my home is excess? 

Who can I give it to that needs it more than I?

Power Verses:

2 Corinthians 8:9, "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." (NIV)
                                                                           
2 Corinthians 6:10, "Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything." (NIV)

© 2010 by Shari Braendel. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 20, 2010

Learning to Fear Not

Zoe Elmore

"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)
                   
Devotion:

Healthy fear warns us of danger and prepares us to react appropriately. However, the type of fear referred to in this verse is an unhealthy fear. It gets in the way of what our heavenly Father has already given us: His power, His love and His self-control.

Unhealthy fear overwhelms us with doubt and insecurity; it drains our spiritual life and physical strength. It steals God's peace from our hearts, and robs us of joy in our daily lives. It causes us to become stagnant; unable to move ahead with the things God has planned for us. It's important to remember that unhealthy, paralyzing, controlling fear is not from God. It is one weapon our enemy Satan uses to interrupt, discourage and destroy our relationship with our heavenly Father.

Are you struggling with unhealthy fear? In 1 Samuel 17:32, "David said to Saul, 'Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him'" (NIV).

David could have cowered in the corner with an unhealthy, paralyzing fear at the thought of facing such insurmountable odds. Yet his confidence in God was so strong he actually volunteered to face the giant Philistine.

David saw his giant problem from God's perspective and knew he already possessed everything necessary to face his enemy head on (literally!). This confidence allowed him to rest in God's power and inexhaustible strength in order to defeat his enemy. Because David's reliance was not on himself, but on the One who supplies everything needed, the giant was defeated.

As we follow David's example and look at our giant problems from God's perspective, we have the same assurance that God's very presence will sustain us as we use the tools He has already provided.

For years, I battled unhealthy fear; I allowed it to interrupt my relationship with God and others. It stole peace from my heart and joy from my daily life. I now lean on the truths in Psalm 91:14-15, "'Because he loves me,' says the LORD, 'I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.  He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation'" (NIV). These verses have taught me the value of replacing fear with hope.

Friend, are you living with unhealthy fear? Are you ready to replace it with the courageous and confident hope that's found in trusting God alone? By placing our hope in God and not in our circumstances, we're able to alleviate unhealthy fear.  With God, we can face any giant in our path with confidence.
         
Dear Lord, I praise You as my deliverer, my refuge and shield. When unhealthy fear arises, remind me of Your ever-present help that hides me in the shadow of Your mighty wings. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Moving from Fear to Freedom by Grace Fox

Visit Zoe's blog

"Fear-less" message on (CD) by Lysa TerKeurst

Trials for Today, Treasures for Tomorrow: Overcoming Adversities in Life by Janet Eckles

For extra encouragement, read No Need to Fear

Application Steps: 

What present circumstances need your courageous attention?

How can you rest in God's power as you face them?

Use BibleGateway to search for "fear not," "do not be afraid," and "have no fear" verses.  Read and meditate on one verse every day this month. 

Reflections: 

Will you choose to replace your unhealthy fear with hope in Christ as you face your present circumstances?

When faced with problems, do you rely on your own strength, or the One who provides what you need to conquer your enemy?

Power Verses:

2 Corinthians 12:9a, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'" (NIV)

Deuteronomy 31:8, "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (NIV)

John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (NIV)

© 2010 by Zoe Elmore. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 21, 2009

Supernatural Strength

Micca Monda Campbell

"That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power by His Spirit in the inner man."

Ephesians 3:16 (NAS)
   
Devotion:

Last fall I began battling severe fatigue. Normal life activities became a real struggle for me. On top of it all, I had a heavy speaking schedule. Knowing I would need an extra measure of strength, grace and inspiration to keep going, I cried out to God for help.

On my way home to Nashville from Houston, God arranged an unexpected encounter with someone He would use to strengthen and inspire me beyond my wildest dreams.

Waiting for my flight at the Houston airport, I saw a recognizable face sitting directly in front of me. Quickly, I pulled out my cell phone and called my husband. "Guess who is sitting across from me at the airport - Beth Moore!"

"No way!" he replied.

"Way!"

"You should say 'hello,'" he encouraged. Heeding his advice, I made my way over to Beth and introduced myself. It was a great opportunity for me to thank her for her faithful service. She was her usual precious and humble self. After our short conversation, I returned to my seat, looking up occasionally to watch others meet and greet her as well.

A few minutes later, it was time board the plane. I got up, gathered my belongings, and headed for the gate. To my surprise, Beth was boarding the same plane. While standing in line together, she invited me to chat. I knew our conversation would be sweet but short because I had seat 1-A on the plane.

Upon entering the aircraft, I discovered yet another surprise. A frail, old man was sitting in my seat. The flight attendant explained that the man needed special attention and politely asked if I would mind exchanging seats with him.

I have to be honest. Even though I am short, I wanted the extra leg room that came with seat 1-A, but Beth was standing right behind me. Therefore, I put on my "spiritual" hat and replied, "Of course, I'll take his seat."

The flight attendant thanked me for switching seats and gave me my new seat assignment. "You'll be in seat 5-C," she directed. In response to my new seat, Beth added, "Why, Micca, that seat is right next to me."

I could hardly believe it. For over two hours, I had the privilege of visiting with Beth Moore. We talked, mostly about big hair and raising kids. Then, somewhere during our conversation, I heard God whisper, How'd I do? You said you needed some inspiration, didn't you?

How'd You do? I responded from my heart. You did more than I deserve—more than I would have ever thought to ask.

Sometimes what seems like a bad deal, like having to give up your seat, is actually God inviting us to experience Him in some way. God answer my prayer for inspiration and strength. Had I not submitted to the situation, I may have missed it.

I never imagined that asking for some extra inspiration and strength would come in such a wonderful package as Beth—but that's our God! He doesn't respond to our times of weakness by telling us to pull ourselves up by the bootstraps. No! He provides real help. God gives us supernatural strength that comes from the Spirit. Moreover, He can deliver it any way He chooses.

Sometimes God works in small quiet ways. Other times His actions are up there with the parting of the Red Sea. Whatever way God decides to work, experiencing Him always fills us with inner peace and strength for our journey.

Dear Lord, You are my strength for today, tomorrow, and for always. Sometimes You work in ways that leave me no room to doubt Your love and provision. Thank You for those sweet moments and help me to remember them when You require me to walk by faith. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

An Untroubled Heart: Finding Faith that is Stronger than All Your Fears by Micca Campbell

Join Proverbs 31 Ministries on Facebook for more daily encouragement

All I Need is Jesus & a Good Pair of Jeans by Susanna Foth Aughtmon

Visit Micca's blog - Reflections

Application Steps:

When you ask God for something in prayer, take notice of what happens next. It just might be His answer.

Reflections: 

Do You Know Him?

How have you experienced God lately? If you haven't experienced Him, do you know why?

Power Verses:

Psalm 119:28, "My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!" (ESV)

Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." (NAS)

© 2010 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 22, 2010

Fireworks

Van Walton

"For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God."

1 Thessalonians 4:16a (NLT)

Devotion:

When it comes to fireworks displays I want to sit front and center. I don't want to miss even one "Pop!" or "Boom!"  And I want to take in every sparkle and colorful explosion. With my eyes wide open and my heart wildly beating, I exclaim, "Bring it on!"

Not everyone shares my enthusiasm though. I've seen children bury their frightened faces in parents' protective arms, and observed their little hands fly to cover shocked ears. 

I feel sorry for those not prepared to enjoy the brilliant show in the sky. I remember my first pyrotechnic display. Yes, the noise shocked me. Yes, the incredible brilliance blinded my eyes. But I had been prepared and forewarned about the sound and light show - I was ready and wanted to watch! 

When I scan the crowds at fireworks displays and see the fearful eyes of those caught off-guard, I am reminded of another heavenly display that will cause great fear for those who aren't prepared.

Today's key verse describes the moment Jesus returns to earth. His split-second return bursts forth from the pages of 1 Thessalonians 5 and the book of Revelation with out-of-this-world imagery.

Jesus' return will

·        Be loud.

·        Be displayed in the sky.

·        Involve terrified bystanders.

·        Intrigue adoring crowds who are waiting for His return.

Revelation 6:15-16 describes those who are not ready for the heavenly manifestation. They will not bury their faces or cover their ears, but will run to caves and beg rocks to fall on them.  Why do they plead to die?  Because they are not prepared for the great and glorious return of the Lord.

There are many ways to prepare ourselves for the Lord's second coming.  The first and foremost is to believe in Him as Lord of All. Romans 14:10-12 tells us that eventually, "We will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: 'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God'" (NIV). 

Why not choose this day to call on the name of the Lord and be saved?  Jesus promises, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly" (John 10:10, ESV). That life doesn't end when we die.  It carries on into eternity.

I have no idea how or when I will see Jesus face-to-face for the first time. I would be filled with excitement if I knew I'd see Him coming in the clouds. It is likely though that I will see Him the day I die and He ushers me into eternal life. My real concern though is not when I see Jesus, but how.

I want to be ready. I don't want to have an unhealthy fear of God's judgment or any desire to be covered by rocks! I want to be prepared to look into His face without shame.

Are you prepared for that day? If not, what better time for a new start than right now at the beginning of this New Year?

First John 5:12a, 13 promises, "He who has the Son has the life...These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life" (NAS).

God longs for everyone to be in relationship with Him. No one is excluded from the promise of eternal life, but "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Romans 10:13, NIV).  He has invited each one of us to follow Him. Won't you accept His invitation and say "yes" to God?

Jesus, I don't know when I will see You face-to-face, but I ask that You prepare me for that day. Forgive me of my sins. Wash me clean. Take away my shame and fear; I don't want to miss one detail of Your beauty. Come, Lord Jesus, come. I pray in Your Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

My Prince will Come: Getting Ready for My Lord's Return by Sheri Rose Shepherd

From the Pound to the Palace by Van Walton. A great book and DVD to help you prepare your child's heart to meet Jesus.

Visit Van's blog for more encouragement.

Application Steps: 

Reflect on the moment when you will first see Jesus face-to-face.

Reflections: 

Am I ready to meet Jesus?

Power Verses:

Revelation 1:7, "Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him..." (NASB)

Revelation 21:10, 23, "...the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God...has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God has illumined it..." (NASB)

Romans 10:9-11, "Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart a person believes...and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [endif] salvation. The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him...will [endif] be put to shame or be disappointed." (AMP)

© 2010 by Van Walton. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org

[Judy Harder]

January 25, 2009

When Your Mess Becomes Your Message

Micca Monda Campbell

"Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise." Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV)
       
Devotion:

My brother is a recovered addict. For twenty years, he was absent from our family due to addiction issues. Countless times we thought he was dead, and according to statics, he should have been.

However, God happens to be in the restoration business. He is willing to restore and heal all who come to Him. It doesn't matter who you are, what you've done, or what has been done to you. God is willing and able to turn any tragedy into triumph. My brother is living proof.

After entering many programs with hopes of success and end results of failure, my brother finally found the answer: Jesus. It wasn't until my brother met the Lord that healing and true change occurred. Suddenly, all things became new.

What's most exciting is anyone can experience this kind of freedom!

The truth is, we don't have the strength, will power, or ability to free ourselves from bondage no matter what the bondage is—drugs, lust, gluttony, pride, anger, or fear. Until we renounce our sickness and surrender to Christ, we will never experience freedom. On the other hand, when we are willing to give King Jesus our mess, He turns it into our message.

Not a day goes by that my brother doesn't look for opportunities to brag on God and share His message of hope.

Take this past summer for example. He and his family came home for a visit. One evening, our families gathered for dinner at Red Lobster. His treat! Twenty-six year old Tiffany was our server. Right away, we noticed two things about Tiffany. She was a natural with people, and she was very pregnant. While we enjoyed her kind service, we had no idea that God would turn the tables and call us to serve her in a unique way.

It started when my sister refused to allow my brother to buy her dinner. While my sister loves to give to others, she's not so good on the receiving end. I, on the other hand, understood that it gave my brother great pleasure to pick up the check. The Lord knows I didn't want to deny him his blessing!

Poor Tiffany found herself caught in the middle of the argument. Eager to win, my brother said to our server, "You see, I was a drug addict for years. During that time, my sisters did a lot for me. Now, I just want to bless them as they have blessed me."

Tiffany's eyes widen. "You were a drug addict?" she inquired. "I would have never guessed."

"Yes. I was," my brother replied. "But Jesus changed all that." From there he told Tiffany his life-changing story.

"I went from being lost to being found; from being homeless to being a home owner; from being an employee to owning my own business; from being bound by drugs to being set free in Christ."

Tears filled Tiffany's eyes as we shared God's love with her. That's not all. Later that week, we confirmed God's love to her by presenting her with a baby gift.

Oh, friends, when you and I—like my brother—allow God to turn our mess into our message, He not only changes our lives, but He changes the lives of others too.

Dear Lord, Your mercy astounds me. Your goodness overwhelms me as I cry out "heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me and I will be saved."  God, give me opportunities to speak of Your hope so that others may know Your goodness and salvation. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Do You Know Him?

An Untroubled Heart: Finding Faith that is Stronger than All Your Fears by Micca Campbell

Be sure to visit Micca's blog today where she will be interviewing her brother.

Divine Prayers for Despairing Parents: Words to Pray When You Don't Know What to Say by Susanne Scheppmann
The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman

Application Steps:

Are you longing for freedom? Renounce your sin and ask Jesus to save you and heal you.

Then, tell people of His wonders this week!

Reflections: 

What is keeping you from completely surrendering your struggles to God?

Do you look for ways to brag on God by sharing your story? Why or why not?

Power Verses:

Luke 19:10, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." (NIV)

Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." (NAS)

© 2010 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.proverbs31.org